Sao Miguel, the largest island in the Azores, is a prime destination for marine life lovers. Its clear waters and abundant marine mammals make dolphin watching an essential activity. What sets this island apart is the diversity of experiences, from swimming alongside wild dolphins to combining wildlife tours with visits to volcanic landscapes. We particularly like the Swim with Dolphins in the Azores for its intimate approach, small group size, and focus on respectful encounters. Watching dolphins in their natural habitat here feels authentic and rewarding.
This guide focuses on two standout dolphin watching tours—one that offers a close swim with dolphins in a small-group setting, and another that combines whale watching, volcano visits, and a full-day adventure. Both have earned high marks for their authentic experiences and knowledgeable guides, making them excellent choices for marine mammals enthusiasts.
Overview of the Best Dolphin Watching Tours in Sao Miguel
In this article, you’ll find detailed descriptions of two top-rated dolphin experiences:
- A small-group swim with wild dolphins that emphasizes respectful interaction, with options for morning or afternoon departures.
- A full-day tour that combines whale watching, volcanic crater visits, and a scenic coastal drive, suitable for travelers who want a broader exploration.
Now, let’s dive into what makes each tour special.
1. Swim with Dolphins in the Azores
This tour offers a chance to actually swim with Atlantic spotted, bottlenose, and common dolphins in their natural environment. Departing from Ponte Delgado, the trip lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes and includes a small group size—limited to 8 people—to ensure a personal and low-impact experience. The focus here is on respectful marine interaction, so the water swims are carefully managed to prevent stressing the animals.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of marine biology expertise and eco-consciousness. You’ll be accompanied by experienced guides and marine biologists who will explain dolphin behavior and ensure minimal disturbance. Swimmers can choose between morning or afternoon departures, which allows flexibility depending on your schedule. Guests consistently praise the guide’s professionalism and the safety measures in place. As one reviewer notes, “The guides were amazing and you could tell they had a lot of experience.”
Key highlights include the chance to see dolphins up-close while swimming in the wild, enjoying the stunning coastline views, and contributing to ecotourism efforts that protect these intelligent marine mammals.
Bottom Line: If you’re eager for an active, respectful encounter with dolphins and want a small-group experience, this tour is hard to beat. It combines adventure, education, and conservation in one package.
2. Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour With Lunch
This full-day adventure offers a comprehensive look at marine life and volcanic landscapes. Starting from Ponta Delgada, it includes a whale watching trip where you might spot pygmy whales, beaked whales, or humpback whales—depending on the season. Marine biologists on board will help you identify the animals and explain their behaviors, providing a deeper understanding of the local ecosystem.
After about 3 hours at sea, the tour continues with visits to Lagoa do Fogo, one of the most remarkable crater lakes on the island, and a stop at Salto do Cabrito, a beautiful waterfall. The day also includes a visit to Santa Barbara, the island’s best-known surf beach, and a buffet lunch with drinks, making it a well-rounded experience. This tour is perfect for those who want a full-day immersion in both marine and volcanic scenery.
The reviews highlight the expert local guides and their flexibility—one guest mentioned, “The tour guide was very nice and professional,” even if whales were not always seen. The tour’s value lies in its diverse activities and educational component, making it suitable for families, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a broad Azorean experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a mix of marine wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and cultural exploration in one day. It’s a great all-in-one tour for those with limited time but a big curiosity.
How to Choose Between These Dolphin Tours
If your main goal is an up-close swim with dolphins, the Swim with Dolphins in the Azores is your best pick. It’s perfect if you value a small-group, respectful interaction and are comfortable swimming in the ocean. Keep in mind this tour is shorter and focused solely on dolphins, making it a more intimate experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a full-day exploration that includes whale watching, volcanic visits, and scenic coastal stops, then the Among Whales Dolphins and Volcanoes Full Day Tour offers excellent value. It suits travelers who want variety and a broader understanding of the Azores, especially if they’re interested in both marine life and volcanic landscapes.
Budget-wise, both tours are similarly priced, but consider what you most want to experience. The shorter swim tour is more active and personal, while the full-day tour provides a mix of wildlife and landscape.
Final Thoughts
Sao Miguel offers a remarkable chance to see dolphins and whales in the wild, with options tailored for different interests. For those eager to swim among the dolphins while respecting their space, the small-group tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a more comprehensive day exploring volcanic craters, waterfalls, and marine life, the full-day experience is a fantastic choice.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak months (April to June), when marine sightings are most frequent. Both tours are highly rated and provide authentic, responsible encounters with Azorean marine life. Whether you choose a gentle swim or a full-day adventure, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of the ocean’s wild side.
Happy dolphin watching, and remember—always choose tours that prioritize the well-being of these incredible animals.
